Keeping your log home looking lovely and in tip top shape requires a watchful eye. Regular inspection and maintenance is your first and best defense against troubles that could easily get out of hand if they go unnoticed or unattended. When it comes to log cabin inspection and maintenance, Jaworski Coatings is your go-to company. We have acquired three decades of knowledge and experience to assist you with your log home needs. Following are a few tips to help you keep a look out for potential problems.
Check the walls inside and out. Are there any obvious signs of moisture, rot, mold, mildew or insect damage? Look for gaps which can often appear over time. Are the logs discolored? Grey, green or dark areas could be a sign of prolonged ultraviolet exposure from the sun, excessive weathering or moisture damage. Is the finish fading or peeling? This is a good sign you need a new coat or refinishing before larger problems arise.
Is the roofline sagging? Are there any signs of displacement? Are there any gaps that appear between it and the walls? Be sure to check both inside and out. It’s advisable to check the roof and the base of the house frequently because these areas have more contact with moisture can cause the greatest damage.
Do you have any obvious drainage problems? You want to keep water away from your log foundation as much as possible. Keep guttering in good condition, with at least the recommended 18” of overhang. Down spouting, too, should run a minimum of that distance away from the base. Check to make sure water isn’t running back and pooling around or under the base.
It’s also a good idea to have a ground clearance of at least 12” from your logs. This provides a ventilated distance for your lower logs so that they don’t get wet as easily and can dry off more rapidly. It also provides a better protection from splashing that comes from overflowing gutters. Keep objects away from the walls so they don’t hold moisture. Check your decking as well, especially the posts.
Are your windows and doors functioning properly? Sticking doors and windows could be sign of a sagging roof or shifting walls. Determine if any light or air is coming through. Check the same between the log courses, rafters, purlins and ridge beam.
Always keep a close eye on a basement as this is the lowest point where water tends to run to. Look for moisture, mold, mildew or insect infestations.
Check any suspicious areas for rot by tapping the wood lightly. Rotting areas will sound hollow. Take care not to knock a hole in the wood as this will allow even more moisture or insects to infiltrate.
Detecting problems early through these simple inspection steps could save you a great deal in damage repair down the road. Should you come across any problems and need more information you can visit our “Ask an Expert” section and receive free advice. Supplying any photographs would be most helpful as well as the year your log home was built, the manufacturer (if possible), and the type of wood it is made from.
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